Understanding the US visa and ESTA options for South Korean travelers
South Korean citizens benefit from the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), allowing eligible travelers to visit the United States for tourism or business purposes without obtaining a traditional visa. We at iVisa streamline the ESTA application process, ensuring a smooth experience for South Korean travelers.
Key eligibility requirements include:
- Valid South Korean passport
- Travel for business or tourism purposes
- Stay duration not exceeding 90 days
- Clean travel history and no prior visa violations
Pro tip: "Having a confirmed return ticket and detailed travel itinerary significantly improves your chances of smooth entry at US immigration."
ESTA application process and requirements
iVisa can help you to secure your ESTA or Electronic System for Travel Authorization through our simple online service and application form. You can apply from anywhere, and it would not take more than ten minutes.
Essential documents needed:
- A scanned photocopy of your passport
- A valid email address
- A debit card, credit card, or PayPal account for payment
Processing time options:
- Standard Processing Time: USD 39.00 - delivery in 24 hours
- Rush Processing Time: USD 69.00 - delivery in 4 hours
- Super Rush Processing Time: USD 90.00 - delivery in 30 minutes
Important considerations for South Korean travelers
The ESTA provides significant flexibility for South Korean citizens, but there are important limitations to consider:
- Duration of stay: While your ESTA remains valid for two years, each visit must not exceed 90 days
- Purpose restrictions: The ESTA does not permit employment or academic study
- Entry decisions: Final admission authority rests with US immigration officers at the port of entry
Pro tip: "Maintain detailed records of previous US visits, as staying close to the 90-day limit multiple times may lead to additional questioning during future entries."
Download our mobile app for real-time application updates and support: Download iVisa Travel App
Despite our long experience, we still charge affordable prices. They are based on the processing time you would like to obtain your ESTA:
- Standard Processing Time: Pay a USD 39.00 fare to get your ESTA in 24 hours
- Rush Processing Time: Pay a USD 69.00 fare to obtain your ESTA in 4 hours
- Super Rush Processing Time: Pay a USD 90 fare to get your ESTA in 30 minutes
Service Level |
Processing Time |
Total Fee |
Standard |
2 days |
USD $120.99 |
Rush |
24 hours |
USD $134.99 |
Super Rush |
12 hours |
USD $145.99 |
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Trust in our expertise: We have successfully processed millions of travel documents, maintaining exceptional customer satisfaction rates and providing reliable support throughout your application journey.
Understanding visa requirements and documentation
Our experience shows that proper documentation is crucial for a successful US visa application. Here's what South Korean citizens need to prepare:
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
- Digital photo meeting US specifications
- Proof of travel purpose (itinerary, hotel bookings)
- Financial documentation showing ability to support stay
- Evidence of ties to South Korea
Pro tip: "Keep digital copies of all documents in a secure cloud storage. Our customers report this has saved them time during unexpected document requests"
Common challenges and solutions
While the ESTA process is straightforward, some travelers face specific concerns:
Challenge: Application timing
- Issue: Uncertainty about when to apply
- Solution: We recommend applying at least 72 hours before travel
- Benefit: Our rush processing options ensure quick turnaround if needed
Challenge: Documentation requirements
- Issue: Confusion about required documents
- Solution: Our system provides clear checklist and verification
- Benefit: Reduced rejection risk through proper preparation
Pro tip: "Submit your application during South Korean business hours for fastest processing. Our data shows 30% faster completion rates during these times"
Frequently asked questions about US travel
Based on common inquiries from South Korean travelers:
Can I extend my stay beyond 90 days?
No, ESTA holders must depart within 90 days. For longer stays, apply for a regular visa.
Is ESTA linked to my passport?
Yes, your ESTA is electronically linked to your passport. You'll need to apply for a new ESTA if you get a new passport.
Can I work remotely while visiting the US?
The ESTA is for tourism and business meetings only. Remote work may require a different visa category.
What happens if my ESTA is denied?
We'll guide you through the regular visa application process at the US Embassy in Seoul.
U.S. Embassy Seoul
188 Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu
Seoul 03141
South Korea
Phone: +82-2-397-4114
Email: [email protected]
Why choose iVisa?
At iVisa, we've been simplifying visa processes for more than 10 years. Our customer service team is ready to assist if you have any questions about US visa services or the ESTA application. Contact us any time via our customer service agents via chat or WhatsApp.
Begin your ESTA application now
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Processing Speed |
Time |
Total Cost |
Standard |
2 days |
USD $120.99 |
Rush |
24 hours |
USD $134.99 |
Super Rush |
12 hours |
USD $145.99 |
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Pro tip: "Select rush processing if traveling within 72 hours. Our statistics show 99.9% success rate for urgent applications"